Our Hope

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Scripture: Colossians 1:25-27 (NIV)

25 I have become [the church’s] servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them, God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Devotion

            The scripture above contains a marvelous truth about our savior, Jesus Christ. Paul is here revealing that the mystery of God’s salvation hidden from the Old Testament Jewish people. This mystery has now been revealed in the person of Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection. Thus, now we can have the hope of heaven in all its fullness.

            Did the Old Testament people die without hope because they did not know Jesus? No, if they had faith in God, they were saved by their faith. What we have seen and experienced in Christ Jesus they longed to see, but still, they held out hope that God would in the future make the promises in His word come true. As Jesus says in the gospel, “Abraham saw my day and rejoiced” (John 8:56)

            We should then live in accordance with the truth we have received in God’s word concerning who Jesus was and what he did for us while he walked the earth. No matter how bad the condition of the world seems to be, the Christian is to always have hope. No matter how many wars, earthquakes, or train derailments happen, God is always faithful to the people He created.

            This character was revealed in the person of Jesus. He led a sinless life, died a cruel death, and was raised triumphantly for our sakes. We should be eternally grateful that our God is a loving and awesome God. No matter what our sin is, He is willing to forgive that sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Our hope is never in vain if it is placed squarely in Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

            Lord God Almighty, we worship you with prayers of thanksgiving for the hope we have in Jesus. No matter how much we sin and rebel against your laws, your grace and forgiveness are always there. Your confession and repentance are always received by you, Father God. Be with us as we walk through your world. Keep us in your care, and have mercy upon us. Amen.

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